The newly sworn-in Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Pastor Peter Akpe, has pledged to base his tenure on humility, service, and collective responsibility, declaring that his office is a mandate to serve the people, not a platform for personal gain.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Akpe made the declaration during a reception at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, Government House, Yenagoa, an event attended by political leaders, church representatives, family, and well-wishers from across the country.

Addressing the gathering, the deputy governor stressed that leadership should be guided by faith, accountability, and genuine concern for the welfare of the people.

“Public office should not be seen as a reward but as a burden of trust that demands sacrifice, discipline, and openness to counsel,” he said.

He encouraged the Christian community and citizens to remain steadfast in prayer and constructive engagement, noting that governance succeeds when leaders and followers work together.

“This responsibility did not come by my own doing. It is a privilege to serve Bayelsa, and I will do so with the fear of God, respect for the people, and a commitment to what is right,” Pastor Akpe stated.

Flanked by his wife, Dr. Favour Akpe, he clarified that he did not lobby for the position, describing his appointment as an act of God.

“I owe this state greater commitment, more listening, and more service. This office is not mine alone; it belongs to the people who believe in a better Bayelsa,” he said.

He added, “I have not sought to lobby for any position, including this one. Most of Bayelsa’s influential figures are present here today. In my life, it has always been God guiding people to act on my behalf. I’ve always said, ‘Lord, just do your own.’

“Some asked me what I was doing about this, and I replied, let the will of God prevail. You cannot enter a role God has not prepared you for. All glory goes to the Almighty.”

Akpe thanked Governor Douye Diri, the Bayelsa House of Assembly, and other stakeholders for placing their confidence in him.

“I sincerely appreciate the governor for granting me this privilege and recognizing my ability to shoulder greater responsibility. I also thank the House of Assembly and my constituency,” he said.

He assured Bayelsans that his focus would be on supporting policies that enhance livelihoods and strengthen institutions, noting that the overwhelming support he has received is a reminder of the expectations placed upon him.

Former Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Bayelsa Elders Council, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (retd.), praised Governor Diri for appointing Akpe, calling the decision wise and timely. He prayed for God’s blessings on the new deputy governor and urged Bayelsans to support him in driving sustainable development.

In separate goodwill messages, Secretary to the State Government Nimibofa Ayawei and House of Representatives member Mitema Obordor congratulated Akpe on behalf of the people of Bayelsa Central and East Senatorial Districts. They described him as a man of high competence and integrity with deep knowledge of governance, praying for wisdom and strength as he carries out his duties. Both pledged full support for the success of his tenure.

Former Deputy Governor Chief Peremoboere Ebebi, representing Bayelsa West Senatorial District, said Akpe’s steady rise in public service came as no surprise, noting that his capacity and competence have always distinguished him. Ebebi recalled Akpe’s successful tenure as Head of Administration under his leadership and expressed confidence that Governor Diri’s choice would foster a productive partnership in steering Bayelsa State’s affairs.